Why Is There No Water in My Toilet Tank?

If you notice that there’s no water in your toilet tank, then you know there’s an issue. Luckily, whatever the problem is, it’s usually straightforward to fix. There are just a few common problems that cause a lack of water in a toilet tank.

Here’s how to diagnose your toilet tank trouble.

Three Common Reasons Why There’s No Water in the Toilet Tank

1. The Float Ball Needs to Be Repositioned (or Replaced)

Older-style toilets use a float ball to control the water level inside the toilet tank. The float ball sits above the water in a toilet tank and stops the flow of water when it reaches a certain height in the tank. If your float ball is too low, insufficient water enters the tank.

To fix the issue:

• Remove the toilet tank lid.
• Give the float arm a slight bend upwards.
• The float ball will move up and allow enough water into the tank. Keep an eye out for the ball remaining low after this; if it remains low, then the ball may need replacing.

2. The Fill Valve Requires Adjusting

If you have a newer style of toilet that has a float cup instead of a float ball, adjusting the fill valve might do the trick. The fill valve controls the water flow that refills the tank. Over time, the fill valve can slip out of place and require readjusting. To do this:

• Lift off the toilet tank lid.
• The water level adjustment rod connects the float cup to the fill valve. Twist the screw on top of the water level adjustment rod clockwise. This will raise the float cup and increase the water level in the tank.
• Flush the toilet and let it refill to test the water level. If you’ve let too much water in, turn the screw counterclockwise to lower the fill valve.

3. The Trip Assembly Needs to Be Repaired or Replaced

The trip assembly is the part of the flush handle that connects to the tank. Sometimes, the trip assembly is positioned poorly or blocked from full function when the lid is on. If this is the case, the flush cycle may not be completed correctly.

To check your trip assembly, lift off the toilet tank and see if the trip assembly is broken, bent, or worn. If it’s damaged, it’s time to replace the trip assembly.

Toilet Tank Not Getting Water? Mr. Rooter Plumbing Can Help

If you're having issues with your toilet and need professional plumbing help, the licensed plumbers at your local Mr. Rooter^® can solve any plumbing-related issue you may have—including making sure there’s enough water in your toilet tank! Call now or request an estimate online.